Mixed Greens Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and a Light Vinaigrette

A mixed greens salad is a staple on any healthy dining table, offering a burst of freshness and flavor with every bite. Packed with vibrant colors and nutrient-rich ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Let's dive into how you can create your own Mixed Greens Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and a Light Vinaigrette right in your own kitchen.

**Ingredients:**

For the Salad:

- Mixed greens like arugula, and kale

- Cherry tomatoes, halved

- Cucumber, thinly sliced

- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

- Avocado, diced (optional)

- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

- Toasted nuts or seeds (such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds) for garnish (optional)

For the Light Vinaigrette:

- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Greens:** Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly. If you're using large leafy greens like kale, remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the greens in a large salad bowl.

2. **Add the Veggies:** Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced cucumbers to the salad bowl. If you're using red onion and avocado, add them as well for extra flavor and texture.

3. **Make the Vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey or maple syrup until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This light vinaigrette adds a tangy sweetness to the salad without overpowering the fresh flavors of the greens and veggies.

4. **Toss and Garnish:** Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Using salad tongs or clean hands, gently toss everything together until the greens and veggies are evenly coated with the vinaigrette. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts or seeds on top for added flavor and crunch.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Transfer the mixed greens salad to individual serving plates or bowls and serve immediately. This salad makes a refreshing appetizer or side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or protein options for a complete meal.

**Tips:**

- For added protein, top your mixed greens salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.

- Experiment with different types of greens and veggies to suit your taste preferences and seasonal availability.

- Make extra vinaigrette and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week to use on other salads or as a marinade for meats and vegetables.

With its vibrant colors, crisp textures, and zesty flavors, this Mixed Greens Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and a Light Vinaigrette is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a solo meal, this simple yet satisfying salad is a perfect choice for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this fresh and flavorful dish!